I'm going to get one for my wife! With her arthritis and all,sure beats swinging a big ax over her head! By time I get back from golf,I'm sure she'll have a few cords split!
Here's a user tip: if you have a pair of those tire ramp stands, put them on one side of this splitter so you can tproll the big logs right up on it to split, no muss, no fuss!
I've had mine for 12 years, put a stabilize bar to keep splitter from laying on it's side. I had to put -O- rings in pump. It's treated me real good & I've split wood that caused log splitter to jump off the ground when log finally split. For $120. it's a great buy !
I've got one similar to this one. Same appearance, same operating style. It sure does save a lot of work. Yeah, I could purchase an electric or a gas operated one, but it doesn't seem necessary, and the workout does me good. Now I have a woodshed-lean-to with horse mats over gravel in the work area. With that solid and stable platform, I have zero issues with the splitter moving around.
Thanks or the video! I got mine at HF with. 25% off coupon so under $100. I used it to split some big rounds that I cannot lift up to my electric splitter on a stand. This way I get those big boys down to a size I can readily handle...I am an older fellow with weak back, lifting a 100 pound round ain't so easy anymore...this splitter allows me to work smarter, not harder! An it stores in very little space when not in use!
I'm getting a little long in the tooth, and bought one because it is safer than swinging an axe, and it allows you to pace yourself without having to put everything you've got into the axe swing. It's very quiet vs a powered splitter. I take my time and enjoy it instead of killing myself.
I have one and it works great. I can use it indoors, can't use a maul indoors, LOL. Not everyone needs "the fastest", or one to use on 25+ cords of wood per year. For occasional use, they are awesome. People with injuries, or a disability can use this no problem, that is a factor with some people.
Well ... after reading ALL the comments (negatives included,ugh!) I FINALLY have my answer! THANK YOU!!! I'm not able to swing an ax anymore, and got REALLY EXCITED when I saw this product. I didn't even know something like this existed!!! I have been swinging an ax since childhood. Well... I'm a little older now, and swinging an ax is no longer an option for me, and I do NOT LIKE asking for help. Gonna try this and give it my best shot. THANK YOU!!!!!!!
Glad you appreciated my review. The splitter works just fine, and you won't regret buying it. When you are done using it, turn the handle all the way to the left, releasing the hydraulic pressure, and it should last you a lifetime. Best to buy at Harbor Freight, and not buy online with shipping costs. I recently had shoulder surgery, and a splitting maul is out of the question now, age 48. Best regards, Keith in AZ
Keith in AZ, I am approaching 62, and having swung an ax since childhood, it has taken it's toll. That, coupled with nerve damage in both of my hands from being a musician and canning, its pretty hard to do what I always used to do in the same manner I used to do it I'm a tough ole bird, though, and determined NOT to give up doing the things I love. I just have to find different/easier ways to *"giterdone".* LOL Thank you very much for your reply. I feel much more encouraged now. I'm definitely going to give this a try!!! Gratefully, Kat in MI :-D
I was given one of these because it leaked from the valve knob - I put a little O-ring in there and it now works perfectly. As has been said, with straight grained wood you're better off using an axe/maul but for those awkward knotty bits, this does a good job and for a price I can't complain!
I've got a clone of this which was purchased at Lowe's (because I had a gift card from a work party). In the year since it was purchased, this manual splitter has proven to be a very worthwhile investment. The lone drawback is you have to move it on a dolly in the yard. Recently, I started keeping it on the dolly and it's been a bit easier on me during use.
weld a 1" rot on the back with two machine ends that fit two store bought wheels and drill a hole on the end with a cotter pin. then weld two handles on the end end to transport!
Mine lasted for three seasons that’s when it started leaking hydraulic fluid from between the cylinder and body. Took it to a couple of places to see if it could be fixed. I was told that it would cost more to repair it then it would cost to buy another one. The way it’s welded together would be more costly in labor to disassemble. May look at the more recent builds and see how they’ve been assembled. Mine wouldn’t take logs bigger than eighteen inches.
Got one of these from HF a few years back when I had quite a few larger rounds to split...they were too big for me to pick up! Split a few with wedges and sledge, then got this and went right through them. Did quarters, then could pick up to put on my HF 5-ton electric splitter....not super fast, but when you are in yer late 60s and still working with firewood, it all definitely saves the back! I am not looking to be commercial or fast...just want to stack in about 2.5 to 3 cords per year for the wood heater!
I have one of these and mounted it to a two wheeled dolly which makes it portable and more stable. It's nice to have on my deck and is quiet and can be used at all hours of the day or night if needed.
I’ve had mine for 5+ years and have split rounds at least 24 inches in diameter. It’s not rated for that and the seals now leak but you can replace the fluid and it still works.
Cool video, I found one of those log splitters at a social concerns store and purchased it. I had a harbor freight 23Ton air over hydraulic jack laying around so I removed the manual cylinder and replaced accordingly. It works very efficiently and fast. The cylinder I used had its own spring return as well as an adjustable height screw for those shorter logs. LOL
I have the harbor freight 10 ton splitter. So far a big time saver. The thing most people don't understand is its any manual splitter is mostly to just crack the log and you still need to finish it with a splitting ax or maul
Aside from a splitting maul or wedge this would be a great addition to the wood pile. Needs just a few tweaks here and there, but will come in handy when the shit goes down and you can’t get fuel for a gas splitter.
Better than swinging a maul and sledge all day. I'm not old but in my 40s, and that is a freaking work out, and man do I get sore. I like this. Off the grid no electric or gas, or swinging heavy stuff. And worth the money. 100 bucks is about what I have in my maul sledge and axe.
Sweet!! Thanks for sharing. I'm going to get one. I've read reviews and most are really happy with theirs and surprised at the quality for such a low price..
So helpful! Had an electric logsplitter which worked well until it didn't. I might take your tips and go this route. Our dead tree supply seems endless at the moment. Thank you!
Thanks for posting this. I ordered one to split wood down for my smaller stove without having to wade out to the woodpile to swing an axe in the snow. I wanted to be sure I was using it correctly (the instructions were not particularly instructive) and found your video with a quick search. The sound was fine for me and the info was very helpful. Thanks again!
Nice video! Thanks for mentioning that. The right hand cylinder is a lower power one than the right. That is not in my manual that came with the unit. Same brand same model. That's a little strange isn't it but I love the unit so far in splitting some pretty tough pieces like 8"+ dia. old Manzanita and it's no problem especially using your technique using the right hand lever until the first major split.
+Fernbark Frist But you dont need to use gasoline and alot of hydro fluid. You should put a bar on the bottom sideways to make it more steady. You should get other stuff and smush it for fun.
I"m buying one for my husband, who is currently cutting with an axe. I can and do use an axe, but we are both 66 yrs and there may come a time when we need something simpler.
I recommend it....got mine when I was 65 and am 73 now and it still works fine...I use it for large rounds, then when quartered I can lift them to my HF 5 ton electric splitter to finish.
You can make one with an air powered bottle jack also and a old axe head for the splitting wedge. I used a piece of trailer beam for the channel and welded a back plate and the axe head. Just connect an air line and push the jack button.
I slightly bent the actual steal frame off centre due to those bloody side catches. Was my bad as I was really really going at it with the short burst lever. Wish I had watched this video first haha. Should have noticed, but yeah, grinded them off haha. Still works a treat. I just make sure I line them up on the natural cracks. To ensure an easier split. Neighbour down the road has a 50T Briggs and stratton. Give him some chicken eggs and leave him topped up with my own fuel for the big stuff and happy days haha. Good lil work out on the old manual. I use an axe for clean wood. Splitter is just great for small/medium sized knotted logs.
Thanks for sharing this video. I was thinking I'd not like pumping that to split but it looks easy, no real issues. I think I'll be buying one myself this week.
I split enough wood to line the back of my 25 foot wide barn 4 feet high in 18" logs. The splitter finally busted the piston seal, and HF had no replacement seal. It had a very cheap poly cup with an "O" ring retainer. After asking a couple of places about replacing the seal with a normal U cup and getting a ridiculously high quote to do so (The piston had to be machined to fit standard seals), I purchased a single lip piston seal from an eBay supplier and used a Rotozip as a die grinder to machine the piston slot to fit. I finished the slot out with a mill file as I hand spun the piston against a support. It is all now better than new. Since the seal was less than $6.00, I came out way ahead instead of buying another splitter. I would advise changing out the hydraulic oil after the first extensive use. Contaminated oil seems to have been the problem that degraded the seal by abrasion. Live and learn. You can split wood that is much larger than 6 inches, but do not allow the pressing plate to push on the edge of the plate. Make sure it pushes on the center of the plate. I bent the splitting push rod from the piston shaft when I was splitting a very large box elder log. As long as you keep the face plate center on the log, you will be OK.
The splitter is the best thing I've ever bought in my life. Have had my splitter for about 4yrs .. my son could do it when he was 3yr old.. but the comment I wanted to leave is,, after the log is split in half always turn bark down to finish splitting.... !!¡!!! My wife got hit in the mouth with a log that she had the bark facing up...
I picked up this also due to a lot of knotty rounds that I couldn't bust with my mual. It was cheap,a great workout, and most importantly it works with some modifications.
Everything is expensive where I live.. 150 bucks/day to rent a splitter. I've thought about buying one but never did. Heating with wood would warrant a splitter. We only burn a cord+/yr, so I use an axe, a maul, an 8 lb sledge and a wedge if needed. No oil, no gas, no maintenance! I don't miss the hungry years.. I'm still living them. lol
The function is very good. I have owned two 10-ton manual splitters - both Greyhound model 67090 and Central Machinery model 62291. After 5 years, the gaskets failed on the 67090 and it was impossible to get replacement parts locally. So I bought the 62291. Within a year the pins and guide shafts broke. Both are made in China. My guess is they use recycled steel which is more brittle. Bottom line: good design and function, but poor materials.
Thanks. I wish I had wood that pops so easily as what you showed in your video. I had a bunch of live oak that Hurricane Irma brought down. That stuff is wet and stringy but the little machine did a great job.
I have the HF 5 ton electric and the 10 ton manual is a great and usable extra just to take care of those bigger logs, splitting them down so they can be lifted up on the electric to finish them off!
Had splitter for about a year and it work fine but the small cylinder quite working making the unit unusable. Called Harbor Freight and they could not help and would not release the mfg name so I could see if they had a solution. Noticed others had the same issue without any solutions.
thanks for the video, I just sold mine, because I am still healthy and this is a tad slow for my needs, but the guy who purchased it thought it was broken or something, the length of the ram, well, it would be nice if they went ahead and added the telescoping ram head to it just to get those short pieces of wood, so anyway I shared this with him because it explained everything nicely. thanks again
I keep a chunk of knotted wood handy as an extender. Instructions say Do Not Do This but I do it anyway. Works OK if you watch your angles. And stand back. And wear some body armor.
I like to see a set up with out the jack.were you take and swing a sledgehammer to spilt it on a stand up frame . would be fast on loading and cutting and cheaper.
mike goddard I think one of the things that makes this unit valuable to some people is that not everyone is able to swing a mighty axe. So for some, an easy hydraulic unit fits the bill.
If you have a bad back it is way easier. Also, if you have a big log, it is easier to split the big log and then you could maul the rest. If you are a big strong buck, then use a splitting maul. It is a very slow way to split wood, but requires way less physical effort.
Just picked mine up today. It works awesome. I was splitting oak logs 6 to 12 inches in diameter. It ain’t gonna win any speed contests but it’s a piece of cake and doesn’t require a huge amount of physical exertion. I could do this for hours and not get tired. Can’t speak to its longevity but it wasvworth $140 I paid for it.
@@Ntwadumela1 Yes, but what is the trick to getting the oil to go inside as you fill it? It's not just as simple as using a funnel, filling it, and capping it. You obviously haven't watched my video where we attempt to refill these.
@@nateLegakis Why did you extend the ram? That doesn't make sense. I'm not sure if you realize how a bottle jack is built and how it works. There is a cylinder inside and a reservoir outside, when you pump, the oil goes from the reservoir to the cylinder, so when you have the ram fully extended, all the oil is in the cylinder (and some air probably), by filling up the reservoir you end up with too much oil in the system. Push the ram all the way down, add some oil and bleed the system. How to Bleed a Bottle Jack ruclips.net/video/Wya6KbBjiIw/видео.html Dissasembling hydraulic jack ruclips.net/video/x1BFLrAOm-M/видео.html PS You extended the ram a bit too far, hence the pressure, you should have stopped pumping before you felt any resistance.
Looks so easy, however tried a smaller log, as 1st test out of the box. The vertical U bracket holding the return spring broke off the ram, about 30 seconds into the splitting process. Major failure! Time to return this product.
have one that's sort of like a little pull behind trailer frame it's on plus a spot for a pin to hook a trailer behind that so you can haul it and a wood cart around. kinda meh on it. I guess if you don't wanna swing an axe then use that. would rather use kinetic or screw type splitter. even powered hydraulic is too slow and i've ran into some pieces that will not split on that. probably screw since they can split full on trees if using them mounted to a post hole digger setup. Otherwise I'd mount it to a table similar to barkbuster.
Good review . Been thinking of getting one. got a Fiskars axe but if you are not used to using an axe , that can wear you out soon. One thing i noticed is that the splitter is a bit wobbly . Since you bought it , did you do anything to stabilize it?
One could weld a couple of 12" pieces of concrete rebar under each end of the eye beam if you are using it dirt or ground, but mine sits on a concrete floor and it is not very tippy.
I've been using one of these for 2 or 3 years. I split cottonwood with it, very tough stuff; when the splitter was new it worked OK. The little flipper wings bent over exactly as you see there. That does not impact function but I wonder why they haven't improved that part of the design, they are still selling them exactly as they were. Then the oil filler cork blew out and I literally could not find it, maybe it went 100 yards into the air and landed somewhere. Or maybe a bird swooped in and nabbed it? I replaced the cork and added a little chain. Then the welds broke that held the puck on the end of the shaft. There was a central rod coming out of the shaft thru the puck that held it for a while but the springs kept flipping the puck off the end. I disconnected the springs and just pushed it back by hand, but that rod got pushed flush into the shaft and now nothing holds the puck. It's useless until I find someone that can weld better than the dudes at the factory. 5/10 would not repeat unless design flaws were addressed.
@MrHolyKindness After two or three years of service I don't think there's any guarantee still active. My experience taking stuff back to the store is that if they have to refund they do. If you're expecting them to push back with the manufacturer? You just get a blank look.
I bought one for 1 simple reason. When the SHTF it doesn't require and fuel but me. Even the kids can do it if its not to big. For all of you talking trash about it you don't split much wood with a maul because there's no need to be in a hurry. If you are in a hurry maybe you should spend less time making comments and more time planning things out. for 100 bucks with a 20% off coupon it cant be beat.
Fernbark Frist i got this one also and i noticed that the bottle jack can be removed with 2 screws. I was wondering if anyone knows where to get another bottle jack in the case that it breaks because i cant find this jack anywhere.
It is essentially a two speed bottle jack. It also has springs mounted to the frame to pull the jack back and it has a larger surface at the top of the jack that will push the log instead of penetrate the log. It also is mounted to an I beam and has a splitter on the other end. I am not sure you could make it yourself for $100 especially if you add your time in. But it would not be difficult to change the jack if this one broke or upgrade to electrical jack.
@@FernbarkFrist A buddy of mine who used to rebuild hydraulic jacks in he Navy said theirs all made a similar noise and nobody worried about it. I have the 20 ton HF shop press and it sings the same tune when released.
Does anyone know where I can find replacement rubber seal that is labeled rectangle ring 33a on parts list? My splitter is leaking from the knob that releases the main ram. I have a model 67090
Anyone have any good advise on whether it's best to store the upright or laying down? I've had mine for a few years and have stored it upright. Substantial amount of oil leaks out. The drain plug is fine and the valve knob is shut tight.
I'm going to get one for my wife! With her arthritis and all,sure beats swinging a big ax over her head! By time I get back from golf,I'm sure she'll have a few cords split!
oh she should have at least a few done by then
Nice guy!!!
Swing by and say Hi to her sister, too....
My man that’s how ya run the game. I hope supper is in the oven when she’s splitting!👍
This is by far (and I really mean it this time) the most underrated yt comment ever!
Here's a user tip: if you have a pair of those tire ramp stands, put them on one side of this splitter so you can tproll the big logs right up on it to split, no muss, no fuss!
Good idea👍
U mean chocks ??
@@jamesobrien9962 nope, I mean the type you drive your car up onto to change oil, etc. They are made of steel, not rubber like chocks.
Yes!
Thank you for this video. I went and picked one up this morning and spent an hour splitting wood. Works just as shown in video. Thanks!
I've had mine for 12 years, put a stabilize bar to keep splitter from laying on it's side. I had to put -O- rings in pump. It's treated me real good & I've split wood that caused log splitter to jump off the ground when log finally split. For $120. it's a great buy !
+Papa Ritz It is amazing how big a log you can split with this thing. Sometimes it groans unpleasantly, but she gets the job done.
Papa Ritz I
Have you ever added oil to it?
My handle on the right side stopped working. I wonder if I need to add hydraulic fluid to fix it.
Have u try to split log that's around 14inches in diameter??? I have several log that are really wide I wonder if this splitter would split it
I've got one similar to this one. Same appearance, same operating style. It sure does save a lot of work. Yeah, I could purchase an electric or a gas operated one, but it doesn't seem necessary, and the workout does me good. Now I have a woodshed-lean-to with horse mats over gravel in the work area. With that solid and stable platform, I have zero issues with the splitter moving around.
Thanks or the video! I got mine at HF with. 25% off coupon so under $100. I used it to split some big rounds that I cannot lift up to my electric splitter on a stand. This way I get those big boys down to a size I can readily handle...I am an older fellow with weak back, lifting a 100 pound round ain't so easy anymore...this splitter allows me to work smarter, not harder! An it stores in very little space when not in use!
My grandma overheard you talking about wrenching your big log, and now she won’t let me back in the house.
Thanks.
i have had mine for 2 years and it is still working good. my guides bent the first time i used mine too. sure beats an ax and a splitter iron!!
I'm getting a little long in the tooth, and bought one because it is safer than swinging an axe, and it allows you to pace yourself without having to put everything you've got into the axe swing. It's very quiet vs a powered splitter. I take my time and enjoy it instead of killing myself.
I have one and it works great. I can use it indoors, can't use a maul indoors, LOL. Not everyone needs "the fastest", or one to use on 25+ cords of wood per year. For occasional use, they are awesome. People with injuries, or a disability can use this no problem, that is a factor with some people.
Pik Pik Mo good points, I am sure all the people who think this is a bad splitter are still healthy and can do heavy splitting.
Young whipper-snappers. They just better stay off my lawn.
Well ... after reading ALL the comments (negatives included,ugh!) I FINALLY have my answer! THANK YOU!!! I'm not able to swing an ax anymore, and got REALLY EXCITED when I saw this product. I didn't even know something like this existed!!! I have been swinging an ax since childhood. Well... I'm a little older now, and swinging an ax is no longer an option for me, and I do NOT LIKE asking for help. Gonna try this and give it my best shot. THANK YOU!!!!!!!
Glad you appreciated my review. The splitter works just fine, and you won't regret buying it. When you are done using it, turn the handle all the way to the left, releasing the hydraulic pressure, and it should last you a lifetime. Best to buy at Harbor Freight, and not buy online with shipping costs. I recently had shoulder surgery, and a splitting maul is out of the question now, age 48. Best regards, Keith in AZ
Keith in AZ,
I am approaching 62, and having swung an ax since childhood, it has taken it's toll. That, coupled with nerve damage in both of my hands from being a musician and canning, its pretty hard to do what I always used to do in the same manner I used to do it I'm a tough ole bird, though, and determined NOT to give up doing the things I love. I just have to find different/easier ways to *"giterdone".* LOL
Thank you very much for your reply. I feel much more encouraged now. I'm definitely going to give this a try!!! Gratefully, Kat in MI :-D
I was given one of these because it leaked from the valve knob - I put a little O-ring in there and it now works perfectly. As has been said, with straight grained wood you're better off using an axe/maul but for those awkward knotty bits, this does a good job and for a price I can't complain!
Where exactly is the o ring and what do you have to do to get it in there?
I've got a clone of this which was purchased at Lowe's (because I had a gift card from a work party). In the year since it was purchased, this manual splitter has proven to be a very worthwhile investment. The lone drawback is you have to move it on a dolly in the yard. Recently, I started keeping it on the dolly and it's been a bit easier on me during use.
weld a 1" rot on the back with two machine ends that fit two store bought wheels and drill a hole on the end with a cotter pin. then weld two handles on the end end to transport!
Mine lasted for three seasons that’s when it started leaking hydraulic fluid from between the cylinder and body. Took it to a couple of places to see if it could be fixed. I was told that it would cost more to repair it then it would cost to buy another one. The way it’s welded together would be more costly in labor to disassemble. May look at the more recent builds and see how they’ve been assembled. Mine wouldn’t take logs bigger than eighteen inches.
Got one of these from HF a few years back when I had quite a few larger rounds to split...they were too big for me to pick up! Split a few with wedges and sledge, then got this and went right through them. Did quarters, then could pick up to put on my HF 5-ton electric splitter....not super fast, but when you are in yer late 60s and still working with firewood, it all definitely saves the back! I am not looking to be commercial or fast...just want to stack in about 2.5 to 3 cords per year for the wood heater!
I have one of these and mounted it to a two wheeled dolly which makes it portable and more stable. It's nice to have on my deck and is quiet and can be used at all hours of the day or night if needed.
I picked one up from Home Depot - it works like a charm for those logs that are just about impossible to split with a maul.
OK
I’ve had mine for 5+ years and have split rounds at least 24 inches in diameter. It’s not rated for that and the seals now leak but you can replace the fluid and it still works.
Cool video, I found one of those log splitters at a social concerns store and purchased it. I had a harbor freight 23Ton air over hydraulic jack laying around so I removed the manual cylinder and replaced accordingly. It works very efficiently and fast. The cylinder I used had its own spring return as well as an adjustable height screw for those shorter logs. LOL
I've been wondering about that thing. Thanks for the review.
Yeah wait for the 25% discount coupon $75 , awesome little log splitter ,I just split wood because it's fun lol ,enjoy and blessings.
It would be nice if H.F.would actually send the coupon booklet in the mail!!!!!
I have the harbor freight 10 ton splitter. So far a big time saver. The thing most people don't understand is its any manual splitter is mostly to just crack the log and you still need to finish it with a splitting ax or maul
+john smith Especially since the ram doesn't extend far enough to fully split the log. Thanks for watching.
+Fernbark Frist I use a 4x4 standing up against the ram after first run though, it works to give it the needed extension.
Aside from a splitting maul or wedge this would be a great addition to the wood pile. Needs just a few tweaks here and there, but will come in handy when the shit goes down and you can’t get fuel for a gas splitter.
Better than swinging a maul and sledge all day. I'm not old but in my 40s, and that is a freaking work out, and man do I get sore. I like this. Off the grid no electric or gas, or swinging heavy stuff. And worth the money. 100 bucks is about what I have in my maul sledge and axe.
I'll def be buying one! Good review sir!
Thanks!
Sweet!! Thanks for sharing. I'm going to get one. I've read reviews and most are really happy with theirs and surprised at the quality for such a low price..
FetchTheSled I bought the trader Joe's version works great
Yeah axe's can crippled you if you make mistakes? I do have a bearded axe I use to carve spoons and bowls ,and kuksa mugs for Xmas gifts .
Thanks for the review, kinda needed something my gf can use to split the larger logs that won't fit in the stove when I'm not home
Great review!!! Wasn’t sure how these worked. Going to buy one now and get some work done through the quarantine!!!!
So helpful! Had an electric logsplitter which worked well until it didn't. I might take your tips and go this route. Our dead tree supply seems endless at the moment. Thank you!
I like the vertical engine driven system; no lifting and easy to reposition the logs
Great Mothers Day gift idea.
Just be certain you teach her how to use it! HA HA
The ram mounting plate flexed and bent. Still use it to split smaller pieces. I bought a Stickler for the biggin's !?
Thanks for posting this. I ordered one to split wood down for my smaller stove without having to wade out to the woodpile to swing an axe in the snow. I wanted to be sure I was using it correctly (the instructions were not particularly instructive) and found your video with a quick search. The sound was fine for me and the info was very helpful. Thanks again!
Glad I could help and thanks for watching.
Use your axe in the snow! Chop wood like a man! Hydraulic log splitters are for pussies!
@@Thin447Line She can't split wood like a man. Numbchuck....that's a lady your being a jerk to.
Nice video! Thanks for mentioning that. The right hand cylinder is a lower power one than the right. That is not in my manual that came with the unit. Same brand same model. That's a little strange isn't it but I love the unit so far in splitting some pretty tough pieces like 8"+ dia. old Manzanita and it's no problem especially using your technique using the right hand lever until the first major split.
Bought one today. Works like a dream. Split about 1/2 cord of oak in an hour, just cruising. Got it for $92 plus tax with the 20% coupon.
+FetchTheSled That was a good deal. The only thing about using it is that it is boring to use because it goes so slow.
+Fernbark Frist But you dont need to use gasoline and alot of hydro fluid. You should put a bar on the bottom sideways to make it more steady. You should get other stuff and smush it for fun.
wyfshwuytetwhey
+FetchTheSled You apparently don't know how much a cord of wood is.
why would you say that? 4x4x8' maybe I'm just not the wuss you are.
Looked at this exact one but passed cause I wanted to research it. Now I need to go back and purchase. Thanks for the video!!!
Thanks for watching.
Great job and nice video information.
Rounding the edges and corners with your grinder will definitely reduce the hanging.
I usually buy my wood. But I had one of these. It's great for those logs the left to big.
I've had mine for 3 years and I love it!
I"m buying one for my husband, who is currently cutting with an axe. I can and do use an axe, but we are both 66 yrs and there may come a time when we need something simpler.
It works pretty good. Kinda slow, but still works good.
I recommend it....got mine when I was 65 and am 73 now and it still works fine...I use it for large rounds, then when quartered I can lift them to my HF 5 ton electric splitter to finish.
You can make one with an air powered bottle jack also and a old axe head for the splitting wedge. I used a piece of trailer beam for the channel and welded a back plate and the axe head. Just connect an air line and push the jack button.
You sure can....if you are handy that way.
I slightly bent the actual steal frame off centre due to those bloody side catches. Was my bad as I was really really going at it with the short burst lever. Wish I had watched this video first haha. Should have noticed, but yeah, grinded them off haha. Still works a treat. I just make sure I line them up on the natural cracks. To ensure an easier split. Neighbour down the road has a 50T Briggs and stratton. Give him some chicken eggs and leave him topped up with my own fuel for the big stuff and happy days haha. Good lil work out on the old manual. I use an axe for clean wood. Splitter is just great for small/medium sized knotted logs.
Thanks for post this review. Really helpful. Might be perfect for my needs.
Thanks for sharing this video. I was thinking I'd not like pumping that to split but it looks easy, no real issues. I think I'll be buying one myself this week.
Thanks. I did end up buying a SunJoe instead. Seemed like a better idea.
It looks exactly the same as the HF but in a crappier color.
Thanks for the review I'll get one and give it a go up at deer camp. If it don't work I'm only out a $100.00 plus it's a new toy to mess with.
I think you will like it....split rounds with it, then use a splitting axe to get to the right size!
I split enough wood to line the back of my 25 foot wide barn 4 feet high in 18" logs. The splitter finally busted the piston seal, and HF had no replacement seal. It had a very cheap poly cup with an "O" ring retainer. After asking a couple of places about replacing the seal with a normal U cup and getting a ridiculously high quote to do so (The piston had to be machined to fit standard seals), I purchased a single lip piston seal from an eBay supplier and used a Rotozip as a die grinder to machine the piston slot to fit. I finished the slot out with a mill file as I hand spun the piston against a support. It is all now better than new. Since the seal was less than $6.00, I came out way ahead instead of buying another splitter.
I would advise changing out the hydraulic oil after the first extensive use. Contaminated oil seems to have been the problem that degraded the seal by abrasion. Live and learn.
You can split wood that is much larger than 6 inches, but do not allow the pressing plate to push on the edge of the plate. Make sure it pushes on the center of the plate. I bent the splitting push rod from the piston shaft when I was splitting a very large box elder log. As long as you keep the face plate center on the log, you will be OK.
wonder if you can set a steel plate in there between log and push plate to distribute the force?
The splitter is the best thing I've ever bought in my life. Have had my splitter for about 4yrs .. my son could do it when he was 3yr old.. but the comment I wanted to leave is,, after the log is split in half always turn bark down to finish splitting.... !!¡!!! My wife got hit in the mouth with a log that she had the bark facing up...
Oh my!
Ouch! That's why you should not let wimmen use yer tools!
Wall mount it by the stove to make kindling.
This is the best one yet.....
sorry but a bit too large and slow for that!
Thank you for splitting through the part where a branch was cut off. I was wondering how this type of splitter would handle that.
Glad I could help!
Thank you for this. I just bought one to tie me over, but it seems like a decent unit!
Thanks for showing us and take care.
I picked up this also due to a lot of knotty rounds that I couldn't bust with my mual. It was cheap,a great workout, and most importantly it works with some modifications.
@Dewitt Leslie 😁👍.
Great video, very informative. I read through these and got a chuckle to your answers to some of the dumber responses!
glad you enjoyed the video...and other parts.
Everything is expensive where I live.. 150 bucks/day to rent a splitter. I've thought about buying one but never did. Heating with wood would warrant a splitter. We only burn a cord+/yr, so I use an axe, a maul, an 8 lb sledge and a wedge if needed. No oil, no gas, no maintenance! I don't miss the hungry years.. I'm still living them. lol
This is super slow. If you heat with wood, do not buy. Get a gas unit. If you are young, stick with an ax.
The function is very good. I have owned two 10-ton manual splitters - both Greyhound model 67090 and Central Machinery model 62291. After 5 years, the gaskets failed on the 67090 and it was impossible to get replacement parts locally. So I bought the 62291. Within a year the pins and guide shafts broke. Both are made in China. My guess is they use recycled steel which is more brittle. Bottom line: good design and function, but poor materials.
Was looking to possibly build one but now might buy this. Thanks
Thank you for the demo. It looks pretty handy🙂
I've had one for years. Love it!
I recently bought the Southland 6 ton electric / hydraulic splitter and love that thing.
fantastic
Thanks. I wish I had wood that pops so easily as what you showed in your video. I had a bunch of live oak that Hurricane Irma brought down. That stuff is wet and stringy but the little machine did a great job.
I have the HF 5 ton electric and the 10 ton manual is a great and usable extra just to take care of those bigger logs, splitting them down so they can be lifted up on the electric to finish them off!
Had splitter for about a year and it work fine but the small cylinder quite working making the unit unusable. Called Harbor Freight and they could not help and would not release the mfg name so I could see if they had a solution. Noticed others had the same issue without any solutions.
Same problem here with the small cylinder no longer working.
Is the small cylinder the one that moves the piston fast? If so, I have the same issue. Can't find an affordable replacement.
Try adding an o ring and more oil like others have tried sucessfully.
thanks for the video, I just sold mine, because I am still healthy and this is a tad slow for my needs, but the guy who purchased it thought it was broken or something, the length of the ram, well, it would be nice if they went ahead and added the telescoping ram head to it just to get those short pieces of wood, so anyway I shared this with him because it explained everything nicely. thanks again
kentagion Thanks for watching, glad it helped. I can imagine the guy complaining and you showing him the video and saying "see, that is how it works!"
I keep a chunk of knotted wood handy as an extender. Instructions say Do Not Do This but I do it anyway. Works OK if you watch your angles. And stand back. And wear some body armor.
I Bent the ram on mine a little but I think I can fix it. I’ve had a pretty good experience with mine other wise
HD now sells the same manual splitter for $200. HF sold it for half that.
you can easily mount this unit to an old dolly or cart to move it about easily.
Brought one 4 years ago....works fine still
Can those balancers for the wood be taken off? I've got large chunks of wood and would be better if I could just take those off.
Anything that can cut thick metal will take them off, or just stomp on them with your boot.
I like to see a set up with out the jack.were you take and swing a sledgehammer to spilt it on a stand up frame . would be fast on loading and cutting and cheaper.
mike goddard I think one of the things that makes this unit valuable to some people is that not everyone is able to swing a mighty axe. So for some, an easy hydraulic unit fits the bill.
I'm not seeing how that would be any easier than using a splitting maul?
If you have a bad back it is way easier. Also, if you have a big log, it is easier to split the big log and then you could maul the rest. If you are a big strong buck, then use a splitting maul. It is a very slow way to split wood, but requires way less physical effort.
Just picked mine up today. It works awesome. I was splitting oak logs 6 to 12 inches in diameter. It ain’t gonna win any speed contests but it’s a piece of cake and doesn’t require a huge amount of physical exertion. I could do this for hours and not get tired. Can’t speak to its longevity but it wasvworth $140 I paid for it.
Bought one after a year it leaks a little no problem I bought a gallon of oil and filler up when needed. Good way to work out stress.
How did you add the oil?
@@nateLegakis Every bottle jack has a filler opening, you can see it at 2:19 just below the sticker.
@@Ntwadumela1 Yes, but what is the trick to getting the oil to go inside as you fill it? It's not just as simple as using a funnel, filling it, and capping it. You obviously haven't watched my video where we attempt to refill these.
@@nateLegakis Why did you extend the ram? That doesn't make sense. I'm not sure if you realize how a bottle jack is built and how it works. There is a cylinder inside and a reservoir outside, when you pump, the oil goes from the reservoir to the cylinder, so when you have the ram fully extended, all the oil is in the cylinder (and some air probably), by filling up the reservoir you end up with too much oil in the system. Push the ram all the way down, add some oil and bleed the system.
How to Bleed a Bottle Jack
ruclips.net/video/Wya6KbBjiIw/видео.html
Dissasembling hydraulic jack
ruclips.net/video/x1BFLrAOm-M/видео.html
PS You extended the ram a bit too far, hence the pressure, you should have stopped pumping before you felt any resistance.
I was gonna leave a comment but I decided to split🤣🤣🤣🤣
Hey! I hung around cuz I liked this video it was a really good cut! :P
Good one😂
Lol Nice!
Oh, you "wood" do that, wouldn't you?
Nice! Keep em' coming!
I was wondering if the manual splitter would help me. Thank you for this video.
Thanks for the review video. Helped a lot in my decision to buy one now.
Pretty interesting that someone fabricated this. How much does it weigh?
It is pretty heavy, probably in the 70 pound range
Looks so easy, however tried a smaller log, as 1st test out of the box. The vertical U bracket holding the return spring broke off the ram, about 30 seconds into the splitting process. Major failure! Time to return this product.
Bummer. Hopefully you next one works better.
Thanks so much for the awesome review buddy. I wasn't sure if it was worth buying, but now I will definitely look to buy one soon.👍😉
have one that's sort of like a little pull behind trailer frame it's on plus a spot for a pin to hook a trailer behind that so you can haul it and a wood cart around. kinda meh on it. I guess if you don't wanna swing an axe then use that. would rather use kinetic or screw type splitter. even powered hydraulic is too slow and i've ran into some pieces that will not split on that. probably screw since they can split full on trees if using them mounted to a post hole digger setup. Otherwise I'd mount it to a table similar to barkbuster.
You and me sir have a different definition of a phrase "goes pretty quickly".
I have only had mine for one year and it now leaks oil, I’m not sure why, it doesn’t extend as far as it used to.
Good review . Been thinking of getting one. got a Fiskars axe but if you are not used to using an axe , that can wear you out soon. One thing i noticed is that the splitter is a bit wobbly . Since you bought it , did you do anything to stabilize it?
No, but I have thought about it.
One could weld a couple of 12" pieces of concrete rebar under each end of the eye beam if you are using it dirt or ground, but mine sits on a concrete floor and it is not very tippy.
I've been using one of these for 2 or 3 years. I split cottonwood with it, very tough stuff; when the splitter was new it worked OK. The little flipper wings bent over exactly as you see there. That does not impact function but I wonder why they haven't improved that part of the design, they are still selling them exactly as they were. Then the oil filler cork blew out and I literally could not find it, maybe it went 100 yards into the air and landed somewhere. Or maybe a bird swooped in and nabbed it? I replaced the cork and added a little chain. Then the welds broke that held the puck on the end of the shaft. There was a central rod coming out of the shaft thru the puck that held it for a while but the springs kept flipping the puck off the end. I disconnected the springs and just pushed it back by hand, but that rod got pushed flush into the shaft and now nothing holds the puck. It's useless until I find someone that can weld better than the dudes at the factory. 5/10 would not repeat unless design flaws were addressed.
@MrHolyKindness It might have to do with what you split. Pine? piece o' cake. Cottonwood? not so much
@MrHolyKindness After two or three years of service I don't think there's any guarantee still active. My experience taking stuff back to the store is that if they have to refund they do. If you're expecting them to push back with the manufacturer? You just get a blank look.
I bought one for 1 simple reason. When the SHTF it doesn't require and fuel but me. Even the kids can do it if its not to big. For all of you talking trash about it you don't split much wood with a maul because there's no need to be in a hurry. If you are in a hurry maybe you should spend less time making comments and more time planning things out. for 100 bucks with a 20% off coupon it cant be beat.
How well would this machine cope with splitting some freshly cut maple pieces 16” long x 18” diameter? (twenty pieces in total) … Regards
Probably not well since the diameter you quoted exceeds the design specs.
The slow speed bar isn’t moving after a certain amount of space any tips on how to get that fixed
Ricardo Martinez what isn’t working?
Isaiah Spinney sorry if my explanation wasn’t good. But the right stick on the log splitter stops going after it goes out about 4 inches
How long and how thick can the log be
I've been wondering how they work . Thanks ! I might just buy one !
Glad I could help
liked and subbed! EXcellent job of clearly presenting pros & cons. :-D
Thank you!
Fernbark Frist i got this one also and i noticed that the bottle jack can be removed with 2 screws. I was wondering if anyone knows where to get another bottle jack in the case that it breaks because i cant find this jack anywhere.
I'm only guessing here,but, I would imagine you could get a bottle jack at any auto parts store or maybe even Home Depot or Lowes.
It is essentially a two speed bottle jack. It also has springs mounted to the frame to pull the jack back and it has a larger surface at the top of the jack that will push the log instead of penetrate the log. It also is mounted to an I beam and has a splitter on the other end. I am not sure you could make it yourself for $100 especially if you add your time in. But it would not be difficult to change the jack if this one broke or upgrade to electrical jack.
Thank you for this! Totally awesome! Love it.
I like mine. Just the right amount of work. Not too easy, not too hard.
Right on.
I bought one from northern when they first come out I live in Texas hardwood country and it's not worth the metal it took to build it
Good to know.
Do all Harbor Fright jacks make that whining sound when released?
So far as I can tell, it is only mine.
@@FernbarkFrist A buddy of mine who used to rebuild hydraulic jacks in he Navy said theirs all made a similar noise and nobody worried about it. I have the 20 ton HF shop press and it sings the same tune when released.
What kind of tree are you splitting? I'm thinking about getting one of these splitters.
Thanks!
I think in this video it is pine and maple. Hard to remember, it was a few years ago.
@@FernbarkFrist
Thanks!
Very Simple and Practical. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
I have one I bought used. It works great for me. I use it to split the harder pieces in half, and use a axe afterwards
I think if I puck one of these up, I'll round the edges on the guides so it hopefully won't catch as much
I thought about doing that too.
Well that's pretty impressive for something come from Harbor Freight
@Dewitt Leslie 🙄
Does anyone know where I can find replacement rubber seal that is labeled rectangle ring 33a on parts list? My splitter is leaking from the knob that releases the main ram. I have a model 67090
Junk mine leaked hydraulic fluid everywhere took it back and got the electric one best damn deal for the money.
Thanks for the video, I am going to get one.
Thanks! Just bought one!
Just bought this, I really like it
Anyone have any good advise on whether it's best to store the upright or laying down? I've had mine for a few years and have stored it upright. Substantial amount of oil leaks out. The drain plug is fine and the valve knob is shut tight.
I wonder how that works on hardwood like oak or mesquite?
Unfortunately I don't have wood of that variety here. I can tell you that I have moved on to a gas splitter.